A calming technique that all the family can use.

Here's an easy way to help your child feel calm before a test, visiting the dentist or any other activity that's making them feel anxious. (works great on adults too!)

Based on the latest research, practising breathing for just two minutes appears to be an easy way to calm our nervous system.

Anytime you want to help your child reduce stress or improve decision-making, try this 4:8 ratio breathing technique together.

Imagine you have a big birthday cake in front of you covered in candles. Encourage your child to use their imagination and share with you how the cake looks and smells.

Breathe in through your nose and slowly count to four.

Then exhale through pursed lips (as if you're blowing out lots of candles on a birthday cake) as you slowly count to eight.

Repeat this 5 times.

Stop and check in on how you're both feeling and repeat as needed.

I'd love to know in the comments below if you tried this tip and found it helped.

Diana